In the early 1720s, Quakers migrated from Long Island to settle in and around Pleasantville. The Pierce Family made their way to the area in 1740. Quakers owned five of the seven main farms in Pleasantville during this time period.
In 1805, Joseph Pierce inherited 125 acres of property from his father, James. The home, known as Pierce House, is believed to have been built around 1813. The original house consisted of just the front two rooms of the current structure. An ardent Quaker, Joseph Pierce became a key figure in providing a safe path for slaves escaping through Westchester. Pierce House played an important role in the Underground Railroad, offering nighttime shelter for those seeking freedom.
This finely crafted, Federalist style Colonial home has undergone a number of changes over the years. The library and interior arches were added in the late 1880’s, when the house served as the Protestant Shelter for Children. During their ownership of the house, the Payne family of Reader’s Digest fame added mahogany paneling in the living room and the library. They also expanded the living space with a brick addition designed by James Renwick Thomson.
Today, this historic house has been meticulously renovated and restored while maintaining the integrity of the original period details. The residence is now a stunning home that is perfect for modern lifestyles.
